Windfoiling (or foil windsurfing) is a surface water sport that is the hydrofoiling evolution of windsurfing, as well as typical sailing boats and sailing hydrofoils. It uses similar equipment to windsurfing with a normal or slightly evolved rig on a normal or specialist foil board.
Mechanics
The board has a hydrofoil mounted in the fin box. The hydrofoil lifts the board off the water and enables the rider to achieve improved speeds in light winds due to the reduced drag.[1][better source needed]
The foil transmits a hydrodynamic lift force to the board, capable of lifting it out of the water. The goal is to reduce drag and increase performance.[need quotation to verify]
Olympic event debut
Windfoiling is planned as a new Olympic event for 2024 (the fourth of 10 to use foiling equipment).[2][3] They will be using the Starboard IQFoil gear.[4][5]
Events involving windfoiling
| Event[3] | Windfoil Model |
|---|---|
| Men's Windsurfer Women's Windsurfer | IQFoil |
| Men's One Person Dinghy | Laser |
| Women's One Person Dinghy | Laser Radial |
| Women's Skiff | 49erFX |
| Men's Skiff | 49er |
| Mixed Kite | Formula Kite |
| Mixed Two Person Dingy | 470 |
| Mixed Two Person Multihull | Nacra 17 |
| Mixed Two Person Keelboat Offshore | TBC |
See also
- Land windsurfing — on large skateboard, propelled by sail
- Hydrofoil board — surfboard with a hydrofoil
- Wing foiling - a lightweight wing on a surfboard with a hydrofoil